Video: Beijing Ceremony ‘Blown’ (UPDATED)

Stringent security surrounding the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics has failed, with a Korean television station broadcasting preview footage after a reporter managed to walk into the National Stadium during a rehearsal on Monday.

The opening ceremony, directed by China’s best-known film director, Zhang Yimou, has been under the strictest security. Design and production teams and the thousands of cast members have been required to sign confidentiality agreements. Breaches are punishable by up to seven years jail.

Beijing Olympics spokesman Sun Weide last night told The Age the footage was obtained by “abnormal means” and questioned the professional standards of the reporter. But he said: “We hope to surprise the world with an excellent performance.”

Spoiler Warning: following videos may affect your experience of watching the actual ceremony. You may choose to avoid clicking on them.